CNA Proper Hand Hygiene and PPE Usage

Question 1

How long should a CNA scrub their hands with soap and water during proper handwashing?

Accepted Answer

At least 20 seconds

Answer

The CDC recommends scrubbing all surfaces of the hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—approximately the time it takes to hum the 'Happy Birthday' song twice. This duration ensures adequate mechanical removal of microorganisms.

Question 2

When should gloves be changed during patient care?

Accepted Answer

Between tasks on the same patient when moving from contaminated to clean areas, and between patients

Answer

Gloves must be changed between tasks on the same patient when moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site (e.g., from perineal care to wound care), when gloves are torn, and between caring for different patients. Hand hygiene is performed each time gloves are changed.

Question 3

Which type of glove is recommended for routine patient care when there is no known latex allergy concern?

Accepted Answer

Non-sterile disposable examination gloves (nitrile or latex)

Answer

Non-sterile disposable examination gloves (either nitrile or latex) are appropriate for most routine patient care activities. Sterile gloves are reserved for procedures requiring surgical asepsis. Nitrile gloves are increasingly preferred due to the prevalence of latex allergies.

Question 4

When is an N95 respirator required instead of a standard surgical mask?

Accepted Answer

When caring for residents on airborne precautions, such as active tuberculosis

Answer

An N95 respirator is required for airborne precautions—when caring for residents with airborne diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, or chickenpox. N95 respirators filter at least 95% of airborne particles and must be fit-tested for each wearer.

Question 5

Why should a CNA avoid touching their face while wearing gloves during patient care?

Accepted Answer

Pathogens on the gloves can enter the body through mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth

Answer

Touching the face with gloved hands can transfer pathogens from the gloves to mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth, which are entry points for infection. Maintaining awareness of hand position is a key infection prevention habit.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Proper Hand Hygiene and PPE Usage